Sunset Walk | Soyambhunath

Traditionally the first place to visit when one comes to Nepal, Soyambhunath is perfect for a sunset walk from one of the two bases, giving a fantastic perspective of Kathmandu, and the hills around, while understanding the background of this valley!

Sunset Walk | Soyambhunath

Traditionally the first place to visit when one comes to Nepal, Soyambhunath is perfect for a sunset walk from one of the two bases, giving a fantastic perspective of Kathmandu, and the hills around, while understanding the background of this valley!

History has it that Kathmandu was a lake, which eventually emptied through the gorge at the southern end of the valley at Chhobar. When it emptied, the sacred lotus that was on the lake landed on this hill, and hence the temple of Soyambhunath was built here.

The scientific side of this story can be explained using the earthquakes that are part of Nepal. During the last earthquake, Kathmadu rose by a meter and shifted three meters to the south in just under a minute. Such earth movements could have spilled the water out of the lake through the thin morriane that was protecting the lake in the south, and gradually the gorge could have been cut out, emptying the lake. This explanation shows the intricate relationship Kathmandu has with earthquakes.

The stupa on top of Soyambhunath is the oldest in the Valley, and the guardians living around have been living there since about 2000 years. Its quite a history, and definitely a place worth visiting.

This trip also combines very well with a traditional dinner, making it a good way to come into the country, and appreciate its traditions and heritage.

Itinerary

At around four in the afternoon, a guide comes along with a car to pick you up, and drive you to the base of the mountain, from where you get a guided walk to the top of the temple. A perfect time to appreciate the temple, when the locals are also busy doing thier evening rituals.

The trip ends around six in the evening, or a bit later, depending on the sunset that day!

Includes

English Speaking Guide

Private Vehicle

Entrance Permits

Government taxes

Excludes

Drinks

Meals

Tips

"be immersed"

"Kathmandu Inside Out"

Day Tours | What to carry

The day tours are the ones where you have to worry the least about what to carry. However, some information is always helpful.

A light jacket or a warm jacket (depending on time of year and how cold you generally get)

An umbrella or a rain jacket. You never know

Some money (in case a souvenir tempts you, or you want to have a drink)

A water bottle (water is available for purchase everywhere, though we do not recommend purchasing plastic bottles - garbage is a nuisance in Nepal.